Wherein: I get my first taste of the opulence of the former royalty and wealthy of Iran, and am introduced to the widely used technique of using pieces of mirror to decorate walls and ceilings. Plus the first of many bazaars I would visit in Iran.

Wherein: I spend a day exploring the city of Shiraz, dazzled by gardens and mosques and splendid architecture.

Persepolis: Glory of the Persian EmpireWherein: I explore the ancient ruins of the glory of the Persian Empire of antiquity -- Persepolis. Plus a look at the associated necropolis and the rubble ruins of Pasargadae.

Wherein: I explore the ancient mud city of Rayen, a maze of passageways and buildings above and below ground. I meet our guide's family and friends, and gain insights into the typical Iranian lifestyle.

Wherein: I learn how the city keeps itself cool in the hot desert, using underground water canals and harnessing the wind in towers. Then I visit some places central to the Zoroastrian religion of the Persians.

Looking for a private guide in order to see Iran for yourself? Please contact our most excellent guide, Reza, whom we would love to recommend to anybody seeking an intimate experience with this country. email: Hamzeh.Rezaee [at] gmail. Feel free to contact me with the blue button above if you have questions about how we undertook our journey.